She logged 250,000 miles last year, but Sandra Main, the Hong Kong–born, Australia-raised global brand president of La Mer, will always pack more cosmetics than clothes.

No matter how long or short the trip, I always bring three pairs of shoes: heels, flats, and my Common Projects sneakers, which I wear on the plane.

The best travel advice is just bring a carry-on—especially if you have connecting flights. And never pack more than you’ll wear. I do have two cosmetic cases, though: one for my in-flight spa ritual (cleansing water and Crème de La Mer; staying hydrated is key!) and another with all my products—like Marni perfume and Bumble and Bumble shampoo—decanted into travel-size bottles.

In-flight, I like to read biographies. I always have a few lined up. Now I’m reading about YSL’s muse, Loulou de la Falaise. Flying is my “me time” and the only chance to turn off my phone. I consider it truly luxurious.

The one thing I will never do on a plane is connect to in-flight Wi-Fi.

I often travel toHong Kong, where I swing by Din Tai Fung for the soup dumplings. I love to soak up the culture as quickly as possible, so why eat by yourself in the room when the world outside awaits—also, I hate my room smelling of food.